Michtam

Michtam is a Hebrew term of uncertain meaning found in the superscriptions of six psalms: Psalms 16, 56–60. All six are attributed to David. The word has been interpreted variously as golden psalm (from kethem, gold), a psalm engraved (for permanence), a secret or expiation psalm, or a liturgical genre designation whose exact meaning was already lost by the time of the Septuagint translators. The Septuagint renders the term as stelography (inscription on a pillar), while modern scholars remain divided between musical, liturgical, and literary interpretations. Despite the uncertainty, the six Michtam psalms include some of the most theologically rich in the Psalter, notably Psalm 16 with its Resurrection resonances (Acts 2:25–28).